New Martinsville Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official New Martinsville, West Virginia government websites.

  About New Martinsville City Government
Annual Budget $1.9 million

The governing body of New Martinsville, West Virginia, is the New Martinsville City Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large, serving four-year terms. The current council includes Mayor Sandy Hunt and council members David E. "Dave" Haught, John "Jack" W. Wooton, and others, with elections held in even-numbered years.

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for New Martinsville is $1.9 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.

Regular city council meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the New Martinsville City Hall, located at 191 Main Street, New Martinsville, WV 26155. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.

  About New Martinsville, West Virginia

Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, New Martinsville stands as the vibrant hub of Wetzel County, West Virginia. With a population of approximately 5,000 residents, this charming city was founded in 1838 and has since evolved into a close-knit community that prides itself on its rich history and picturesque landscapes. Major neighborhoods such as Pine Street, Washington Street, and the East End contribute to the town's diverse character, while the downtown area boasts a mix of local shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. New Martinsville's economy is supported by various industries, including glass manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, with key employers like the American Glass Research and Wetzel County Hospital leading the charge. Additionally, the city hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, fostering camaraderie among residents and showcasing the region's unique cultural heritage. The blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a strong community spirit makes New Martinsville a notable place to live and work in West Virginia.

Law enforcement in New Martinsville is primarily served by the New Martinsville Police Department, which is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of its residents. Additionally, the Wetzel County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order throughout the county. For those seeking to obtain criminal records such as arrest records, mugshots, and booking information, the process typically begins at the New Martinsville Police Department, where individuals can request access to local arrest records. Those interested in county-level records can approach the Wetzel County Sheriff's Office, which maintains a repository of arrest and incident reports. For a broader search that includes statewide criminal history, the West Virginia State Police, through its Criminal Identification Bureau, provides access to criminal records and background checks. This service may involve submitting fingerprints, identification, and a fee. In an increasingly digital age, many of these records can often be accessed online through dedicated databases, allowing residents to conduct searches conveniently from their homes.

For legal matters, New Martinsville falls under the jurisdiction of the Wetzel County Circuit Court. To request court records, individuals can utilize the online portal provided by the West Virginia Judiciary, or they may visit the clerk’s office in person to access documents related to civil and criminal cases. Vital records, including birth, death, and marriage certificates, can be acquired through the Wetzel County Clerk-Recorder's office, or alternatively from the West Virginia Division of Vital Records. Property records are maintained by the county assessor and recorder, with many of these documents also accessible online through the county's official website. Furthermore, New Martinsville residents can invoke the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act to request various public records, with typical response times ranging from five to ten business days. This act ensures transparency and facilitates public access to government information, empowering citizens to engage with local governance effectively.

  New Martinsville, West Virginia Public Records & Government Resources

About New Martinsville

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Ohio River, the charming city of New Martinsville stands as the vibrant county seat of Wetzel County, West Virginia. Founded in 1838, this close-knit community of around 5,210 residents takes great pride in its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From the quaint downtown district lined with local shops and restaurants to the diverse neighborhoods like Pine Street, Washington Street, and the East End, New Martinsville exudes a welcoming character that draws in visitors and residents alike.
The area's economy is supported by a range of industries, including glass manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, with key employers such as American Glass Research and Wetzel County Hospital playing pivotal roles. Throughout the year, the city plays host to a variety of festivals that celebrate the region's unique cultural heritage and foster a strong sense of community among locals.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Wetzel County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is supported by municipal police departments, including the New Martinsville Police Department and the Paden City Police Department. These agencies are responsible for maintaining public safety within their respective city limits. They coordinate with the sheriff's office on major crimes and regional law enforcement initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage and response capabilities throughout Wetzel County.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Wetzel County Jail, operated by the Wetzel County Sheriff's Office, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the arrestees. Inmate information can be accessed through the sheriff's office, where family members and legal representatives can inquire about visitation schedules and rules. The bail process follows West Virginia's legal framework, allowing for the posting of bond to secure an inmate's release pending trial.

Court Records

The judicial system serving New Martinsville and Wetzel County is anchored by the West Virginia Courts, which oversees the administration of justice at the state level. Residents can access the courts' online case search portal to look up information on civil, criminal, and family law proceedings taking place within the local jurisdiction. The Wetzel County Courthouse, located in the heart of New Martinsville, houses the offices of the Circuit Court Clerk, Magistrate Court, and other court-related functions. For matters involving the federal legal system, the U.S.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Wetzel County includes documentation of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registrations. The Wetzel County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the West Virginia State Police oversee the broader criminal records database for the state. Residents can request background checks through the West Virginia Bureau of Investigation, which provides comprehensive criminal history reports.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Wetzel County are maintained by the Wetzel County Sheriff's Office. These records document the details of an individual's arrest, including charges, booking information, and arresting officer details. Residents and attorneys can request access to these records through the sheriff's office, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act. An arrest record typically includes the date and location of the arrest, the charges filed, and any court dates scheduled.

Public Records Access

Individuals seeking public records related to property, land, and real estate assessments in New Martinsville can turn to the Wetzel County Assessor's Office. This government agency maintains detailed information on local property values, ownership histories, and tax assessments. The Wetzel County Clerk's Office also serves as a valuable resource for accessing land records, deeds, and other documents pertaining to real estate transactions within the city limits.
For residents interested in researching the history and development of their neighborhoods, the Wetzel County GIS (Geographic Information System) provides comprehensive mapping data and spatial analysis tools.

Economy & Demographics

The local economy of New Martinsville is supported by a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services. Key employers in the area include American Glass Research, a leading provider of glass technology solutions, and Wetzel County Hospital, a major regional healthcare facility. The city's thriving downtown district is home to a mix of locally owned shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that cater to both residents and visitors.
Additionally, the New Martinsville Development Authority works closely with the business community to foster economic growth and investment, ensuring that the city remains an attractive place to live, work, and do business.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

Public safety in New Martinsville is primarily the responsibility of the New Martinsville Police Department, which is dedicated to upholding the law and protecting the well-being of local residents. This municipal law enforcement agency handles a range of duties, from responding to emergency calls to investigating criminal activities. The Wetzel County Sheriff's Office also plays a crucial role in maintaining order throughout the county, working in collaboration with the New Martinsville Police Department as needed. Individuals seeking information on arrest records, mugshots, or other criminal justice data can refer to the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation's offender search portal.

Vital Records

The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Division of Vital Registration, is the primary resource for obtaining vital records in New Martinsville. This state agency oversees the issuance of birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses for the local community. Residents can submit requests for these important documents either in person at the regional office or through the convenient online portal.
Additionally, the Wetzel County Clerk's Office maintains historical archives of vital records dating back to the city's founding in 1838, providing a valuable resource for genealogical research and personal documentation.

Business & Licensing Records

Entrepreneurs and business owners in New Martinsville can turn to the city's Development Authority for information and assistance related to business licenses, zoning permits, and other regulatory requirements. This local government office works closely with the community to facilitate the growth and success of local enterprises, ensuring that they are in compliance with all relevant laws and ordinances. The Wetzel County Chamber of Commerce also serves as a valuable resource, offering networking opportunities, educational seminars, and advocacy for the business community.

Elections & Voter Records

New Martinsville voters are served by the Wetzel County Clerk's Office, which administers elections for the county. The Wetzel County Clerk is located at 66 Main Street, Room 105, New Martinsville, WV 26155 (phone: 304-455-8224, website: https://www.wvsos.gov/elections/county/wetzel.html). The County Clerk's office handles voter registration, absentee voting, early voting, Election Day operations, and certification of results for all federal, state, county, and municipal elections affecting Wetzel County residents. West Virginia voters can register to vote online through the West Virginia Secretary of State's website at https://ovr.sos.wv.gov/Register/Landing, or by submitting a paper application available at the County Clerk's office, public libraries, and various state agencies. Voter registration deadlines are 21 days before any election. Voters must provide a valid West Virginia driver's license or ID number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number; first-time voters who register by mail may need to provide identification when voting.

New Martinsville is an incorporated city and holds municipal elections for Mayor and City Council seats. New Martinsville city elections are held in even-numbered years, with the next regular municipal election scheduled for the primary in May 2026 and general municipal election in June 2026 if needed. City election information, candidate filings, and local ballot measures can be obtained from the Wetzel County Clerk's office and New Martinsville City Hall. Voters can find their assigned polling location by using the West Virginia Secretary of State's polling place lookup tool at https://services.sos.wv.gov/Elections/Voter/FindMyPollingPlace or by contacting the Wetzel County Clerk directly with their residential address. Wetzel County typically operates multiple polling locations on Election Day, with precincts assigned based on residential address.

Public election records in West Virginia include voter registration lists (available with restrictions under West Virginia Code §3-2-30), campaign finance reports filed with the West Virginia Secretary of State's office and searchable at https://cfrs.wvsos.gov/, candidate filings and petitions, and official precinct-level election results. The Secretary of State's website provides county-level and precinct-level results for all elections at https://www.wvsos.gov/elections/history/. In the November 2024 presidential election, Wetzel County reported approximately 68-72% voter turnout, consistent with the county's historical turnout in presidential election years, with strong support for Republican candidates reflecting the region's conservative political orientation.

The November 3, 2026 election will be significant for New Martinsville and Wetzel County voters. On the ballot will be races for the United States House of Representatives (West Virginia's 1st Congressional District), the West Virginia Governor's race (Governor Jim Justice is term-limited), multiple West Virginia state legislature seats including House of Delegates District 3 and State Senate District 2 which serve Wetzel County, and various county offices including Wetzel County Commission, Wetzel County Clerk, Wetzel County Sheriff, Wetzel County Assessor, and Wetzel County Prosecuting Attorney. Additionally, New Martinsville municipal elections (if held in 2026) will determine the Mayor and City Council composition. West Virginia does not have a U.S. Senate seat up in 2026 (next Senate race is 2026 for the Capito seat). Voters should verify specific races and filing deadlines through the Wetzel County Clerk and West Virginia Secretary of State.

West Virginia offers absentee voting for voters who will be absent from the county on Election Day, have a disability or illness, are working on Election Day during polling hours, are confined awaiting trial or are a convicted misdemeanant, or are a member of the military or overseas citizen. Absentee ballot applications are available at https://www.wvsos.gov/elections/voters/absentee-voting.html and must be submitted to the Wetzel County Clerk no later than six days before the election (by the Wednesday before Election Day). Completed absentee ballots must be received by the County Clerk by the close of polls on Election Day. West Virginia also offers early in-person voting beginning 13 days before Election Day and ending three days before Election Day at designated early voting locations announced by the County Clerk, typically at the courthouse or other county facilities.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ⚠️ Partial Online (state portal with limited detail, full records in-person) | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor (state property tax database with full parcel data; recorder records primarily in-person) | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online (state inmate search available; detailed arrest records require direct agency contact) | Vital Records: ⚠️ State Office Required (mail/online orders through state office; county clerk for marriage only) | Business: ✅ Free State Database (Secretary of State business entity search; city licenses require city hall contact) | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results (state voter registration portal, full results posted, polling place lookup available) | Overall: 6.8/10 — Wetzel County and New Martinsville provide moderate public records access with strong state-level online resources for property assessment, business entities, and voter services, but many county records require in-person courthouse visits or written requests, reflecting typical access levels for a small rural West Virginia county.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What are the school district and education performance data for New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia?
The New Martinsville School District is located in Wetzel County, West Virginia. According to the West Virginia Department of Education, the district's performance data for the 2018-2019 school year is as follows:

- Graduation Rate: 92.3%
- Attendance Rate: 95.2%
- English Language Arts Proficiency: 68.2%
- Mathematics Proficiency: 63.2%
According to the West Virginia State Police, the crime rate in New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia in 2019 was 5,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is higher than the national average of 3,722.7 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes in New Martinsville were larceny/theft (1,845.7 per 100,000 people), burglary (1,072.2 per 100,000 people), and motor vehicle theft (717.2 per 100,000 people).
The New Martinsville Public Library in Wetzel County, West Virginia provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and West Virginia government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act, which governs access to government documents in West Virginia. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the New Martinsville West Virginia Archives and Genealogy at https://www.wvculture.org/history/wvsamenu.html. Contact the New Martinsville Public Library reference desk at (304) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia Library is located at 212 Main Street, New Martinsville, WV 26155.
Fingerprinting services for New Martinsville, West Virginia residents are provided at the New Martinsville Police Department, which serves Wetzel County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the New Martinsville Police Department at (304) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the West Virginia State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the West Virginia State Police at https://www.wvsp.gov/about/Pages/CriminalHistory.aspx.
To obtain vital records for New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia, you will need to contact the Wetzel County Clerk's Office.

The vital records available from the Wetzel County Clerk's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you will need to provide the full name of the person whose record you are requesting, as well as the date and place of the event. You will also need to provide a valid photo ID and pay the applicable fee.
New Martinsville voters are served by the Wetzel County Clerk's Office, which administers elections for the county. The Wetzel County Clerk is located at 66 Main Street, Room 105, New Martinsville, WV 26155 (phone: 304-455-8224, website: https://www.wvsos.gov/elections/county/wetzel.html). The County Clerk's office handles voter registration, absentee voting, early voting, Election Day operations, and certification of results for all federal, state, county, and municipal elections affecting Wetzel County residents. West Virginia voters can register to vote online through the West Virginia Secr...
Property and land records for New Martinsville and Wetzel County are maintained by multiple county offices at the Wetzel County Courthouse, 66 Main Street, New Martinsville, WV 26155. The Wetzel County Assessor's Office (phone: 304-455-8224) is responsible for assessing all real and personal property in the county for tax purposes. Property assessment records can be searched online through the West Virginia State Tax Department's Property Tax Division website at https://www.wvsto.com/propertytax/propertyTaxHome.aspx, which provides access to property ownership information, assessed values, pro...
Vital records for New Martinsville residents are managed at both county and state levels depending on the record type and date. Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Wetzel County are maintained by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Vital Registration Office, located at 350 Capitol Street, Room 165, Charleston, WV 25301 (phone: 304-558-2931, website: https://dhhr.wv.gov/bph/Pages/Vital-Records.aspx). Birth certificates cost $12.00 for the first copy and $4.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time; death certificates cost $12.00 for the first ...
Business licensing and registration in New Martinsville involves both municipal and state requirements. The City of New Martinsville requires business licenses for most businesses operating within city limits. Applications are processed through New Martinsville City Hall, 430 Main Street, New Martinsville, WV 26155 (phone: 304-455-1010). Business license fees vary depending on business type and gross receipts, with annual renewal required. The city maintains a business license registry, though it may not be searchable online; inquiries about existing businesses can be made by contacting city h...
To obtain vital records for New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia, you will need to contact the Wetzel County Clerk's Office. The address is:

Wetzel County Clerk

PO Box 519

New Martinsville, WV 26155

Phone: (304) 455-8211

The vital records available from the Wetzel County Clerk's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you will need to provide the full name of the person whose record you are requesting, as well as the date and place of the event. You will also need to provide a valid photo ID and pay the applicable fee.
The New Martinsville School District is located in Wetzel County, West Virginia. According to the West Virginia Department of Education, the district's performance data for the 2018-2019 school year is as follows:

- Graduation Rate: 92.3%
- Attendance Rate: 95.2%
- English Language Arts Proficiency: 68.2%
- Mathematics Proficiency: 63.2%
According to the West Virginia State Police, the crime rate in New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia in 2019 was 5,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is higher than the national average of 3,722.7 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes in New Martinsville were larceny/theft (1,845.7 per 100,000 people), burglary (1,072.2 per 100,000 people), and motor vehicle theft (717.2 per 100,000 people).
Yes, the New Martinsville Public Library has a variety of public records available for research. These include local, state, and federal records, as well as records from other states and countries. The library also has a variety of genealogical resources, including census records, birth and death records, and marriage records.
The New Martinsville, Wetzel County, West Virginia Library is located at 212 Main Street, New Martinsville, WV 26155.
The West Virginia State Police provide fingerprinting services at their detachment in New Martinsville, located at:

West Virginia State Police

New Martinsville Detachment

100 Main Street

New Martinsville, WV 26155

Phone: (304) 455-2430

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm
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